Nursing Home Abuse: Watch for Warning Signs
Recent studies show that 1 to 2 million Americans over 65 have been abused, neglected or mistreated by a trusted caregiver. Furthermore, one out of every three nursing homes across the country has been cited for nursing home abuse. This abuse can include neglect, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Unfortunately, many of these cases still go unreported.
What is Considered Abuse?
When the staff of a nursing facility fails to care for its residents in a safe and reasonable manner, abuse occurs. Nursing home abuse is often not a cut and dry issue, and if you suspect a loved one has been a victim, you should contact a skilled personal injury lawyer. A personal injury attorney will help you through the process of seeking damages and will advise you of your next step.
Each year approximately 75 percent of nursing home patients suffer from a fall. This rate is more than double the amount of seniors who suffer falls who do not live in nursing home facilities. This may be due to inattentive staff, slippery floors, or even improper bed height. Falls are the largest cause of potentially preventable emergency room visits for nursing home residents, accounting for 36% of all visits. Other common symptoms of abuse include dehydration, malnourishment, sepsis, over-medication, and incorrect medication. Sadly in some cases this abuse will result in the wrongful death of the victim.
Stay Vigilant for Warning Signs
It is frightening to think that nursing home abuse can happen to a loved one, however there are signs you can look out for to make sure that abuse is not occurring. If you notice any of the following signs, contact a doctor immediately.
Possible signs of Nursing Home Neglect/Abuse
-Bruises and welts
-Burns and abrasions
-Broken bones
-Bad personal hygiene
-Bed sores
-Loss of hair
-Sudden change in weight
-Unexplained or unexpected death
Strange behavior, sudden agitation and emotional withdraw can also be signs indicative of abuse.
If you keep your eyes out for these signs and behaviors, you will help reduce the risk of your loved one being hurt or abused by the people and facilities entrusted with their care.
If you believe your loved one has suffered abuse, contact a skilled lawyer. Consultations are always free, and they will only get paid if you collect damages.
Daggett Shuler, Attorneys at Law, principal office is based at 2140 Country Club Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27104. The firm handles personal injury claims including serious injuries, automobile accidents, workers’ compensation and social security disability. If you or a loved one has been injured in any type of accident call Daggett Shuler for a free confidential consultation at 336-724-1234.
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